The Iliad and the Fate Of Patroclus :: Iliad essays

The Iliad and the Fate Of Patroclus Throughout The Iliad Of Homer, the constant theme of remnant is inherently apparent. Each main character, either by a spike or merely a scratch from an arrow, was wounded or killed during the feeler of the narrative. For Zeus son, Sarpedon, it was a spear through the heart, and for Hector, it was the bronze of the mighty Achilles through his have it away which caused his early demise. It seems that no one could escape an agonizing fate. Of these deaths, the most kindle and intriguing death of all is that of Achilles dear friend Patroclus. Although his life was interpreted by the mighty Hectors spear, who was truly liable for his death? The intricate story line of The Iliad makes many possible answers available, but only one orifice accurately explains the actions and events that led to this gruesome episode. Patrocles was creditworthy for his own death. First of all, Patrocles was responsible for his own death because he request ed his insertion into the bout, goody wise(p) that the Achaeans were being unmercifully defeated. In Book XVI , Patroclus said, Send me forth now at the head of the Myrmidon host That I may be a light of hope to the Danaans. And let me strap on my shoulders that harness of yours That the zealous Trojans take me for you and quickly Withdraw from the fighting. Because Achilles refused to help the Achaeans battle the Trojans, a discontented Patroclus took the matter into his own hands by requesting activation into battle disguised as Achilles in the hope of sending the Trojans into a full retreat from the sight of him. It is apparent that Patroclus was willing to fight although the odds were greatly against him. His vehemence towards the Trojans coupled with his disappointment of Achilles gave him the drive to conquer the Trojan army with or without the aid of Achilles. In doing so, Patroclus took an enormous risk that the Trojans would fall for his trick, a risk with his life as the stakes. Essentially, while pleading to Achilles for battle, it was his own profane death for which he plead.